We have given "certificates" for a pie of their choice whenever they want it ...they have to give mom a couple days "lead time." The kids make the "certificates" and help prepare the fruit for the pie but mom makes the pie crust.
Certificate for a dinner casserole of their choice or "pot luck" dish if mom has a special dish she likes to make....again, they must let the mom know a day or so ahead of time. The kids can make the certificates, help peel potatoes or chop up veggies and mom does the actual cooking, cutting of the meat, etc. for safety. Give the recipe with the casserole. Teachers work long hours, have PTA, parent conferences, meetings, any number of demands on their time so having a hot dish to pop in the oven on a busy day is a tremendous help. We have kids who are teachers and this is their favorite gift.
The certificates can be made with a "quilting" motif done in either colored markers, or with scraps of actual fabric glued to card stock. The kids enjoy making these masterpieces and it helps the kids learn new skills.